Warwickshire Police are currently investigating a significant fire that engulfed a new Greggs bakery site on Longford Road, Exhall, before it had the chance to open to the public. The incident occurred on the evening of Friday, 21 March, at approximately 8:20 PM.

In response to the emergency, fire crews from both Coventry and Nuneaton were dispatched, with initial reports indicating a substantial blaze. The firefighters were on the scene for several hours, and it was noted that the situation required an extensive response, with the number of fire appliances increasing from two to six, alongside a turntable ladder. A spokesperson for Warwickshire Fire and Rescue indicated that assistance was also provided by the West Midlands Fire Service, which sent two additional appliances to aid in containing the fire. The operations concluded just after 1 AM on the 22nd of March.

Following the incident, Warwickshire Police confirmed their suspicions that the fire was an act of arson. A police spokesperson stated, "At this time, we don’t believe anyone was in the building at the time, but a full search will be carried out to confirm this once the scene is safe." The police have urged anyone with information that could be beneficial to their investigation to come forward, either by visiting their website or by calling the non-emergency number.

The Greggs bakery was set to open on the very day of the fire, and a spokesperson for the company expressed gratitude to the emergency services and revealed that plans for the location have now been put on hold. "Our priority over the weekend, once deemed safe to do so, was to secure the unit," the spokesperson stated. They added that "extensive work will be required" to address the damage, and there is currently no definitive timeline for when operations may begin at the new site. Consequently, all staff members who were supposed to begin working there will remain in their existing roles at other locations.

Local photographs taken days after the blaze depict the site surrounded by boards meant to prevent access, alongside piles of debris, further illustrating the extent of the damage caused by the fire. As investigations continue, the police maintain a presence at the site to ensure safety and security.

Source: Noah Wire Services